Healthwatch on 05/27/13

In Cooked, Michael Pollan explores the previously uncharted territory of his own kitchen. Here, he discovers the enduring power of the four classical elements—fire, water, air, and earth—to transform the stuff of nature into delicious things to eat and drink. Apprenticing himself to a succession of culinary masters, the lessons move beyond the practical to become an investigation of how cooking involves us in a web of social and ecological relationships. Cooking, above all, connects us. The effects of not cooking are similarly far reaching. Relying upon corporations to process our food means we disrupt an essential link to the natural world; and weaken our relationships with family and friends. In fact, Cooked argues, taking back control of cooking may be the single most important step anyone can take to help make the American food system healthier and more sustainable. MICHAEL POLLAN is the author of six previous books, including Food Rules, In Defense of Food, The Omnivore’s Dilemma, and The Botany of Desire, all New York Times bestsellers. Dr. David Naimon hosts.

Comments

I really enjoyed your interview with Michael Pollan today (Memorial Day). I learned so much about food I hadn't known. At one time, I did chem analysis in agricultural labs, which has shaped my food habits (I'm an ovo-lacto vegetarian & try to buy organic whenever possible), so Pollan's idea's really resonated with me.